“Yeah, we just pulled in.”
“Okay, are you in the players’ lot with the pass I gave you?”
“We are.”
“Perfect, go to the side door. There will be a security guard there. I’m on my way to get you.”
“You don’t have to.”
“Baby, I’m on my way,” he says, ending the call.
“Was that East, Mommy?” Paisley asks.
“Sure was. He’s going to meet us at the door.”
Paisley cheers and unbuckles her booster seat. After gathering my purse, which holds a few toys for Miss P, and making sure I have my cell and my keys, I lock up my car and we head to the door. East is there waiting on us.
“There’re my girls,” he says, giving me a quick kiss, then lifting Paisley in his arms and kissing her on the cheek as well.
“You found us,” Paisley says happily.
“Of course I did. You ready to watch me play?”
“Yes, and my other friends too. Did you tell them I was here?” she asks, speaking of the other players we’ve met.
“I didn’t, but I will.” She nods like she’s happy with that answer. “I have your tickets,” he tells me. “You’re going to be sitting with Carol. She’s Mark’s wife. He’s our pitcher. She’s super nice and prefers to sit in the stands where the action is.”
“Thank you. I’m sure we’ll be fine.”
“I’ll walk you to where you need to be. Then I need to get back.” He leans in and kisses my cheek. “You look good with my number on your back.”
I blush. “East, it’s fine. You don’t want to deal with the fans. I can manage to find our seats on my own.” I ignore his comment—not much we can do about it in a crowded stadium.
“You sure?” he asks, sliding his hand around the back of my neck and pulling me in for a kiss, causing Paisley, who is still in his arms, to giggle.
“Good luck today.” I kiss him one more time. This time just a quick peck on the lips.
“Good luck,” Paisley says, kissing his cheek.
“My girls are here; it’s going to be a good game.” He sets P back on her feet and guides us into the building. “This is where we part ways. Call me if you need anything.”
“Oh, you mean while you’re out on the field doing your job?” I ask him. “We’re fine, East. Don’t worry about us. Just go and have a good game. We’ll be here when it’s over.”
“I love that,” he says softly. “I love that the two of you are here and will be when the game is over.”
“That’s because we love you, silly,” Paisley chimes in.
“I love you too, princess.” He’s said those very words to her before, but every time it causes my heart to tip over in my chest. I know he means it. I can see it in his eyes and hear it in his voice. He truly loves my daughter. Then again, maybe that’s just me. Maybe more of my heart is wrapped up in him.
We find our seats easily enough, and as soon as we sit, the blonde in the chair next to Paisley turns in her seat. “You must be Larissa.” She holds out her hand. “I’m Carol. It’s nice to meet you.”
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“Yes, you as well.”
“I’m Paisley.” My daughter holds out her hand, and Carol laughs.
“I’ve heard all about you, Paisley. It’s nice to meet you too.”